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Melatonin Interventions in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Sleep Regulation, Behavioral Outcomes, and Challenges Across the Lifespan.

Molecular neurobiology
March 26, 2025
Geir Bjørklund et al. (8 authors)
Journal ArticleReviewHuman Study
Study Details

Study Goal

The researchers aimed to explore melatonin's multifactor impact on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including sleep regulation, behavioral outcomes, neuroprotection, and potential synergies with other therapies.

Results Summary

Melatonin showed promise in improving sleep disturbances and overall well-being in individuals with ASD, with potential benefits for social behaviors, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also suggested neuroprotective effects.

Population

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experiencing sleep disturbances.

Effective Dosage

Not specified

Duration

Not specified

Interactions

None mentioned

Extracted Claims (6)
InterventionDirectionEndpointPopulationDosageImpactClaim #
melatonin
decrease
sleep disturbances
individuals with ASD
-
ameliorating
#1
melatonin
increase
overall well-being
individuals with ASD
-
enhancing
#2
melatonin
neutral
social behaviors
individuals with ASD
-
implications for
#3
melatonin
neutral
communication
individuals with ASD
-
implications for
#4
melatonin
neutral
repetitive behaviors
individuals with ASD
-
implications for
#5
melatonin
increase
neuroprotection
-
-
suggest potential neuroprotective benefits
#6
Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) poses complex challenges affecting social interaction, communication, and behavior, necessitating comprehensive and tailored interventions. Sleep disturbances, prevalent in up to 80% of individuals with ASD, significantly impact well-being. Central to circadian rhythms, melatonin emerges as a promising intervention, primarily recognized for its role in sleep regulation. This review explores melatonin's multifactor impact on ASD, covering sleep regulation, behavioral outcomes, neuroprotection, and potential synergies with other therapies. Melatonin exhibits promise in ameliorating sleep disturbances and enhancing overall well-being, with implications for social behaviors, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties further suggest potential neuroprotective benefits. Future research directions focus on mechanistic insights, individualized medicine, and real-world effectiveness. As melatonin's versatile role unfolds, it stands as a valuable component in the personalized care of individuals navigating the complexities of ASD.

Study Links
Quality Scores
SafetyNot Assessed
Efficacy85/10
Quality75/10
Research Impact Scores
APT Score0.05
Weight Score2.50
Normalized Score0.69
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Melatonin Interventions in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Sleep R... | Panacea Index